SMART Launches 17-Inch, Dual-Touch Interactive Pen Display

SMART Technologies Inc. announces the Sympodium DT770 interactive pen display. The DT770 uses new dual-touch DViT (Digital Vision Touch) technology that allows users to touch the screen with their finger to navigate room-control menus, and automatically switch to using a battery-free, tethered pen to control desktop applications and write notes in digital ink. Simply by connecting the DT770 directly to a computer and a projector, presenters can simultaneously display computer images or multimedia sources on a larger presentation screen for the audience to see. At a suggested list price of US$3,999, the DT770 offers a cost-effective way to combine interactive presentation tools in room-control environments through a single touch interface.

The DT770 detects when the pen is lifted from its holder and automatically toggles between its two input modes. It features a 17" (43.2-cm) screen with SXGA resolution and a new version of SMARTs DViT technology that uses digital cameras to detect both pen and finger inputs. Dual-touch DViT technology is the first camera-based touch technology to be applied to a small display and demonstrates its scalability. The DT770 is the only dual-touch system that operates with just one technology, simplifying electronics, improving usability and minimizing cost. Also included with the DT770 is award-winning SMART Board software, which allows users to write over applications in digital ink and then edit, save, print or post their notes to a website for future reference.

"Equipping large environments with interactive presentation and room-control systems can be expensive and complicated," says Nancy Knowlton, SMART's president and co-CEO. "The DT770 pairs the interactive capabilities SMART is known for with a touch interface, reducing cost and eliminating the need to implement two separate displays."

Tilt stand: A folding stand on the DT770 allows it to be positioned at a comfortable angle on a variety of surfaces. (Sold separately.)

Pricing and availabilityThe Sympodium DT770 interactive pen display will start shipping in June 2005 at a suggested retail price of US$3,999. Not-for-profit educational institutions may qualify for a grant through the SMARTer Kids Foundation, reducing the suggested price to US$3,199. For more information, specifications or authorized resellers, visit www.smarttech.com or call 1.888.42.SMART. For grant inquiries, visit the SMARTer Kids Foundation at www.smarterkids.org or call 403.228.8565.

About dual-touch DViT technologyDual-touch DViT technology is the latest camera-based touch technology developed by SMART. It increases ease of use by allowing the presenter to use either a finger or the battery-free, tethered pen, automatically toggling between the two input modes. While in pen mode, digital cameras detect infrared light emitted by the pen that travels through a prism and the surface of the display. In touch mode, the flow of infrared light is reversed, flooding the surface and allowing the cameras to detect the shadow created by a finger. The cameras communicate position information back to a digital signal processor that quickly and accurately determines the exact point of contact. No special materials are required over the display, preserving the image quality. Multiple U.S., Canadian and other foreign patents for dual-touch DViT technology are pending.

About SMARTSMART Technologies Inc. is both the industry pioneer and global market leader in easy-to-use interactive whiteboards and other group collaboration tools. SMART products include the family of award-winning SMART Board interactive whiteboards, as well as interactive pen displays, interactive digital signage, multimedia cabinets and software. Using SMART products, groups can access and share the information they need to meet, teach, train and present. SMART has been issued and maintains a broad portfolio of patents with numerous other U.S., Canadian and foreign patents pending. SMART customers include NASA, Texas Instruments, BMW, Toyota Motors, DaimlerChrysler, Boeing, Lucent Technologies, NTT, the Los Angeles Lakers, Novartis, the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, Accenture, Procter & Gamble, British Telecom, Disney Imagineering and Harvard University.

SMART is a private company founded in 1987. Employing more than 600 people, SMART is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, with assembly facilities in Ottawa and Calgary, and offices in Bonn, Tokyo, New York City and Washington, D.C. In 1992, SMART formed a strategic alliance with Intel® Corporation that resulted in joint product development and marketing efforts, and Intel's equity ownership in SMART. SMART products are sold through dealers across North America and distributors worldwide.